Hot or cold therapy... which one is right for you?

The type of therapy you need depends on the type of injury you have incurred. It is important to determine the appropriate therapy as using the wrong treatment can actually cause additional harm. Whether you are using hot or cold therapy, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW THE DOCTOR-RECOMMENDED, MEDICALLY CORRECT TREATMENT TIME OF 20 TO 30 MINUTES. Applying either therapy for longer periods, such as 8 hours, can result in harmful or adverse effects in the healing process.

THE HEALING PROCESS (R.I.C.E. THERAPY)

When the body is injured, it responds with a series of repair functions. One of these functions includes an increase of blood flow to the affected area. While this is part of the natural healing process, it can sometimes lead to inflammation that results in swelling and pain. Applying the appropriate use of hot and cold therapies can help bring relief to these discomforts.

In most instances, doctors suggest a combination of four basic methods for a speedy recovery - a technique they refer to as R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation). For the "ice" part of the equation, applying cold immediately after injury can reduce both pain and inflammation. Continue with cold applications until the swelling has gone down, which typically takes a few days.

After the swelling subsides, you can then begin applying heat to increase blood flow into the injured area. This improved circulation aids in expediting the healing process and improving flexibility.

In order for an injury to heal properly, you should immobilize the injured area for 3 to 6 days. Using the injured body part too early can cause further damage and prolong recovery.

HEAT THERAPY APPLICATIONS

Heat brings increased blood circulation to an affected area. This helps to relax tight muscles and restore flexibility in a wide variety of ailments such as:

• Muscle pain/soreness
• Muscle spasms/cramps
• Arthritis
• Chronic neck or back stiffness
• Menstrual cramps

COLD THERAPY APPLICATIONS

Cold treatment actually expedites the natural recovery process by improving the healing effects of blood flow to an affected area. This helps to reduce the swelling and pain caused by inflammation and relieves the discomforts often associated with:

• Joint/muscle injuries
• Back/neck pain
• Arthritis
• Sinus/stress headaches
• Post-surgical pain
• Sunburn/other burns

If you are unsure which therapy to use, consult your physician for the proper treatment method.